WWE is now showcasing its programming on Netflix’s streaming platform, so millions more eyes will be on the product.
To put it into perspective, the Jan. 6 debut episode surpassed the uber-popular Squid Game as the top-watched show on Netflix.
An older generation who had once watched wrestling now could be reinvested in the sport. Newer viewers with passing interest may also now become part of the fabric of those who are die-hard followers of WWE.
With that in mind, let’s break down four wrestlers who should get major pushes in correspondence with the enhanced visibility.
Bron Breakker
Breakker is a budding star in the business. He has everything you could ask for — from athleticism and size to ability on the mic, and even a strong wrestling pedigree. The son of Rick Steiner and the nephew of Scott, the casual fan from years ago would almost certainly be invested when learning of the link between himself and his family members.
It seemed like a bit of a misstep to not have him wrestling on the debut show. He was briefly shown on camera in the crowd and received a good pop. This is the type of talent that can carry the company for years to come. Not even yet 30 years of age, you can expect Breakker to be challenging for a premier belt sooner rather than later.
Tiffany Stratton
The equivalent of Breakker in the Women’s Division is clearly Stratton. She recently won the Women’s Championship belt from Nia Jax after cashing in her Money in the Bank contract.
Stratton’s rise to this point was fast and furious. She debuted less than four years ago — flying up the ranks of NXT before being situated on the main roster. At only 25 years of age, Stratton possesses the classic ‘diva’ look from yesteryear — though the athleticism and ability of a modern-day wrestler. A former gymnast herself, Stratton’s in-ring work is excellent. Throw in her ‘Tiffy Time’ gimmick, and you’re looking at someone who could carry the Women’s Division for years to come.
Carmelo Hayes
Hayes is another wrestler who came from NXT to the main roster. He was a highly-decorated performer on NXT — winning multiple belts including being a two-time NXT Champion.
He’s not as big as some of the premier names you’d usually associate with top-of-the-card standing. Hayes has been involved in several storylines on SmackDown recently and has mostly been on the losing end. However, you can see the investment on the upside. Hayes has been going up against big names in the industry. There’s a clear ceiling with him that is quite high.
He’s excellent on the mic as a heel, and there’s a world where you can see him being very popular as a face down the line. Eventually, Hayes will be put in a position to win a belt, skyrocketing his popularity.
Iyo Sky
Iyo Sky is tremendously underrated. She’s the type of talent that can headline a PLE main event with ease.
Case in point during the WWE Survivor Series WarGames match this past December. Sky climbed to the top of the cage where she found a trashcan. Putting it on over her body, she then proceeded to do a moonsault off the top of the cage literally without any visibility whatsoever. How many other wrestlers can do that?!
Sky has terrific personality, is uber acrobatic, and — given she’s from Japan — you’d think a push would further help to cement the popularity of the company in an overseas market.
